Summary
Introduction:
This text is a retrospective analysis of dual users of combustible cigarettes and e-cigarettes. The study aims to compare pre- and post-vaping smoking rates, smoking-related nicotine dependence, total nicotine frequency and combined nicotine dependence in this population. The study also examines predictors of tobacco cigarette dependence and combined nicotine dependence after initiating vaping.
Key Points:
* The study uses baseline data from a smoking cessation trial with 2896 dual users.
* Nicotine use frequency and the heaviness of Smoking Index (hSI) are used as measures of nicotine dependence.
* Participants decreased cigarettes per day from pre- to post-vaping and combustible cigarette dependence declined from pre- to post-vaping.
* Total daily nicotine use frequency increased after initiating vaping, as did total nicotine dependence.
* hierarchical regression analyses identified variables associated with greater overall nicotine dependence.
* This is the first study to combine combustible cigarettes and e-cigarettes in a single measure to compare pre- and post-vaping nicotine dependence.
Main Message:
This study suggests that dual use of combustible cigarettes and e-cigarettes leads to a reduction in the number of combustible cigarettes, but total nicotine use and dependence increases. This has implications for harm reduction, as the reduction in smoking may offer some benefits, but the increase in total nicotine use and dependence could affect the ability to quit either or both products. The study also highlights the need for further research on the use and dependence of dual products.
Citation
Martínez Ú, Martínez-Loredo V, Simmons VN, et al. how Does Smoking and Nicotine Dependence Change after Onset of Vaping? a Retrospective analysis of Dual Users. Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. 2020;22(5):764-770. doi:10.1093/ntr/ntz043
